US11711603B1 - Modular camera with interchangeable image head and sub-system bases - Google Patents

Abstract

An image head including a housing, side rails, a port, and internal componentry. The housing includes a first side and a second side located opposite the second side. The side rails are located on or within the first side, the second side, or both and the side rails are configured to provide sliding directional control of the image head when connecting to a base. The port is configured to electrically connect the image head to the base. The internal componentry includes a printed circuit board; an integrated lens and sensor assembly (ISLA) configured to generate an image; and memory located on the printed circuit board configured to store the image.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to a modular camera with an image head that may be swapped between multiple different sub-system bases. The image head includes internal componentry such that additional internal componentry is not needed in the sub-system bases to generate images.

BACKGROUND

Generally, image capture devices are available that are capable of capturing both images and videos. These image capture devices may include lenses that may be changed in order to change a field of view, increase or decrease magnification, or otherwise enhance image capture for the image capture devices. Thus, a user may select a lens and place a different lens on an image capture device to create a desired effect.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are implementations of an apparatus where an image head including internal image generating componentry is switchable between multiple different sub-system bases. These different sub-system bases may be selected depending upon a desired activity of a user.

The present teachings provide an image head including a housing, side rails, a port, and internal componentry. The housing includes a first side and a second side located opposite the second side. The side rails are located on or within the first side, the second side, or both and the side rails are configured to provide sliding directional control of the image head when connecting to a base. The port configured to electrically connect the image head to the base. The internal componentry includes: a printed circuit board; an integrated lens and sensor assembly (ISLA) configured to detect an image; and memory located on the printed circuit board configured to store the image.

The present teachings an image capture device comprising: a base and an image head. The base comprises a cavity. The image head comprises: a housing. The housing comprises: a first side; a second side located opposite the second side, and side rails located on or within the first side, the second side, or both. The side rails are configured to slidingly connect the image head within the cavity of the base. The image head comprises a port configured to electrically connect the image head to the base. The internal componentry comprises: a printed circuit board; and an integrated lens and sensor assembly (ISLA) configured to detect an image. The base is free of any circuitry that generates or stores an image.

An image capture device comprising: a base and an image head. The base comprises a power source; an image generation button; and a cavity. The image head comprises a housing, side rails, a port, and internal componentry. The housing comprises: a first side; a second side located opposite the second side. The side rails are located on or within the first side and the second side, the side rails configured to assist the image head into a mating connection as the image head extends into the cavity in the base. The port is configured to electrically connect the image head to the base as the image head extends into the cavity of the base. The internal componentry comprises: a printed circuit board; and an integrated lens and sensor assembly (ISLA) configured to detect an image.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, the various features of the drawings are not to-scale. On the contrary, the dimensions of the various features are arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity.

FIGS.1A-B are isometric views of an example of an image capture device.

FIG.2 is a block diagram of electronic components of an image capture device.

FIG.3A is a front isometric view of an image head located within a phone like form factor sub-system base.

FIG.3B is a rear isometric view of the image head and the phone like form factor sub-system base ofFIG.3A.

FIG.3C is a partial exploded view of the image head and the phone like form factor sub-system base ofFIG.3A.

FIG.4A is front isometric view of the image head located within a rectangular form factor sub-system base.

FIG.4B is a rear isometric view of the image head located within the rectangular form factor sub-system base ofFIG.4A.

FIG.4C is a partially exploded view of the image head and the rectangular form factor sub-system base ofFIG.4A.

FIG.5A is a front isometric view of an image head and a tethered cable form factor sub-system base.

FIG.5B is a rear isometric view of the image head and the tethered cable form factor sub-system base ofFIG.5A.

FIG.6A is an isometric view of a first side of an image head.

FIG.6B is an isometric view of a second side of the image head ofFIG.6A with the second side being opposite the first side.

FIG.6C is a rear isometric view of the image head ofFIG.6A.

FIG.6D is a close-up isometric view of a front edge of the image head ofFIG.6A.

FIG.6E is an isometric view of the image head ofFIG.6A with a housing removed.

FIG.6F is a cross-sectional view of the image head ofFIG.6A along lines VIF-VIF.

FIG.7A is a front isometric view of a seal.

FIG.7B is a rear isometric view of the seal ofFIG.7A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present teachings provide an image capture device that captures videos and audio related to the video. The image capture device includes an image head that may be switched between multiple sub-system bases. The image head contains substantially all of the internal componentry necessary to generate images, videos, or both. The image head is swappable between all of the sub-system bases. Each of the sub-system bases included different functionality depending upon the desire of the user. The sub-system bases receive the image head and when the image head is installed images may be generated.

FIGS.1A-B are isometric views of an example of animage capture device100. Theimage capture device100 may include abody102, alens104 structured on a front surface of thebody102, various indicators on the front surface of the body102 (such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), displays, and the like), various input mechanisms (such as buttons, switches, and/or touch-screens), and electronics (such as imaging electronics, power electronics, etc.) internal to thebody102 for capturing images via thelens104 and/or performing other functions. Thelens104 is configured to receive light incident upon thelens104 and to direct received light onto an image sensor internal to thebody102. Theimage capture device100 may be configured to capture images and video and to store captured images and video for subsequent display or playback.

Theimage capture device100 may include an LED or another form ofindicator106 to indicate a status of theimage capture device100 and a liquid-crystal display (LCD) or other form of adisplay108 to show status information such as battery life, camera mode, elapsed time, and the like. Theimage capture device100 may also include amode button110 and ashutter button112 that are configured to allow a user of theimage capture device100 to interact with theimage capture device100. For example, themode button110 and theshutter button112 may be used to turn theimage capture device100 on and off, scroll through modes and settings, and select modes and change settings. Theimage capture device100 may include additional buttons or interfaces (not shown) to support and/or control additional functionality.

Theimage capture device100 may include adoor114 coupled to thebody102, for example, using ahinge mechanism116. Thedoor114 may be secured to thebody102 using alatch mechanism118 that releasably engages thebody102 at a position generally opposite thehinge mechanism116. Thedoor114 may also include aseal120 and abattery interface122. When thedoor114 is an open position, access is provided to an input-output (I/O)interface124 for connecting to or communicating with external devices as described below and to abattery receptacle126 for placement and replacement of a battery (not shown). Thebattery receptacle126 includes operative connections (not shown) for power transfer between the battery and theimage capture device100. When thedoor114 is in a closed position, theseal120 engages a flange (not shown) or other interface to provide an environmental seal, and thebattery interface122 engages the battery to secure the battery in thebattery receptacle126. Thedoor114 can also have a removed position (not shown) where theentire door114 is separated from theimage capture device100, that is, where both thehinge mechanism116 and thelatch mechanism118 are decoupled from thebody102 to allow thedoor114 to be removed from theimage capture device100.

Theimage capture device100 may include amicrophone128 on a front surface and anothermicrophone130 on a side surface. Theimage capture device100 may include other microphones on other surfaces (not shown). Themicrophones128,130 may be configured to receive and record audio signals in conjunction with recording video or separate from recording of video. Theimage capture device100 may include aspeaker132 on a bottom surface of theimage capture device100. Theimage capture device100 may include other speakers on other surfaces (not shown). Thespeaker132 may be configured to play back recorded audio or emit sounds associated with notifications.

A front surface of theimage capture device100 may include adrainage channel134. A bottom surface of theimage capture device100 may include aninterconnect mechanism136 for connecting theimage capture device100 to a handle grip or other securing device. In the example shown inFIG.1B, theinterconnect mechanism136 includes folding protrusions configured to move between a nested or collapsed position as shown and an extended or open position (not shown) that facilitates coupling of the protrusions to mating protrusions of other devices such as handle grips, mounts, clips, or like devices.

Theimage capture device100 may include aninteractive display138 that allows for interaction with theimage capture device100 while simultaneously displaying information on a surface of theimage capture device100.

Theimage capture device100 ofFIGS.1A-B includes an exterior that encompasses and protects internal electronics. In the present example, the exterior includes six surfaces (i.e. a front face, a left face, a right face, a back face, a top face, and a bottom face) that form a rectangular cuboid. Furthermore, both the front and rear surfaces of theimage capture device100 are rectangular. In other embodiments, the exterior may have a different shape. Theimage capture device100 may be made of a rigid material such as plastic, aluminum, steel, or fiberglass. Theimage capture device100 may include features other than those described here. For example, theimage capture device100 may include additional buttons or different interface features, such as interchangeable lenses, cold shoes, and hot shoes that can add functional features to theimage capture device100.

Theimage capture device100 may include various types of image sensors, such as charge-coupled device (CCD) sensors, active pixel sensors (APS), complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensors, N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS) sensors, and/or any other image sensor or combination of image sensors.

Although not illustrated, in various embodiments, theimage capture device100 may include other additional electrical components (e.g., an image processor, camera system-on-chip (SoC), etc.), which may be included on one or more circuit boards within thebody102 of theimage capture device100.

Theimage capture device100 may interface with or communicate with an external device, such as an external user interface device (not shown), via a wired or wireless computing communication link (e.g., the I/O interface124). Any number of computing communication links may be used. The computing communication link may be a direct computing communication link or an indirect computing communication link, such as a link including another device or a network, such as the internet, may be used.

In some implementations, the computing communication link may be a Wi-Fi link, an infrared link, a Bluetooth (BT) link, a cellular link, a ZigBee link, a near field communications (NFC) link, such as an ISO/IEC 20643 protocol link, an Advanced Network Technology interoperability (ANT+) link, and/or any other wireless communications link or combination of links.

In some implementations, the computing communication link may be an HDMI link, a USB link, a digital video interface link, a display port interface link, such as a Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) digital display interface link, an Ethernet link, a Thunderbolt link, and/or other wired computing communication link.

Theimage capture device100 may transmit images, such as panoramic images, or portions thereof, to the external user interface device via the computing communication link, and the external user interface device may store, process, display, or a combination thereof the panoramic images.

The external user interface device may be a computing device, such as a smartphone, a tablet computer, a phablet, a smart watch, a portable computer, personal computing device, and/or another device or combination of devices configured to receive user input, communicate information with theimage capture device100 via the computing communication link, or receive user input and communicate information with theimage capture device100 via the computing communication link.

The external user interface device may display, or otherwise present, content, such as images or video, acquired by theimage capture device100. For example, a display of the external user interface device may be a viewport into the three-dimensional space represented by the panoramic images or video captured or created by theimage capture device100.

The external user interface device may communicate information, such as metadata, to theimage capture device100. For example, the external user interface device may send orientation information of the external user interface device with respect to a defined coordinate system to theimage capture device100, such that theimage capture device100 may determine an orientation of the external user interface device relative to theimage capture device100.

Based on the determined orientation, theimage capture device100 may identify a portion of the panoramic images or video captured by theimage capture device100 for theimage capture device100 to send to the external user interface device for presentation as the viewport. In some implementations, based on the determined orientation, theimage capture device100 may determine the location of the external user interface device and/or the dimensions for viewing of a portion of the panoramic images or video.

The external user interface device may implement or execute one or more applications to manage or control theimage capture device100. For example, the external user interface device may include an application for controlling camera configuration, video acquisition, video display, or any other configurable or controllable aspect of theimage capture device100.

The user interface device, such as via an application, may generate and share, such as via a cloud-based or social media service, one or more images, or short video clips, such as in response to user input. In some implementations, the external user interface device, such as via an application, may remotely control theimage capture device100 such as in response to user input.

The external user interface device, such as via an application, may display unprocessed or minimally processed images or video captured by theimage capture device100 contemporaneously with capturing the images or video by theimage capture device100, such as for shot framing or live preview, and which may be performed in response to user input. In some implementations, the external user interface device, such as via an application, may mark one or more key moments contemporaneously with capturing the images or video by theimage capture device100, such as with a tag or highlight in response to a user input or user gesture.

The external user interface device, such as via an application, may display or otherwise present marks or tags associated with images or video, such as in response to user input. For example, marks may be presented in a camera roll application for location review and/or playback of video highlights.

The external user interface device, such as via an application, may wirelessly control camera software, hardware, or both. For example, the external user interface device may include a web-based graphical interface accessible by a user for selecting a live or previously recorded video stream from theimage capture device100 for display on the external user interface device.

The external user interface device may receive information indicating a user setting, such as an image resolution setting (e.g., 3840 pixels by 2160 pixels), a frame rate setting (e.g., 60 frames per second (fps)), a location setting, and/or a context setting, which may indicate an activity, such as mountain biking, in response to user input, and may communicate the settings, or related information, to theimage capture device100.

FIG.2 is a block diagram of electronic components in animage capture device200. Theimage capture device200 may be a single-lens image capture device, a multi-lens image capture device, or variations thereof, including an image capture device with multiple capabilities such as use of interchangeable integrated sensor lens assemblies. The description of theimage capture device200 is also applicable to theimage capture device100 ofFIGS.1A-B.

Theimage capture device200 includes abody202 which includes electronic components such ascapture components210, aprocessing apparatus220,data interface components230,movement sensors240,power components250, and/oruser interface components260.

Thecapture components210 include one ormore image sensors212 for capturing images and one ormore microphones214 for capturing audio.

The image sensor(s)212 is configured to detect light of a certain spectrum (e.g., the visible spectrum or the infrared spectrum) and convey information constituting an image as electrical signals (e.g., analog or digital signals). The image sensor(s)212 detects light incident through a lens coupled or connected to thebody202. The image sensor(s)212 may be any suitable type of image sensor, such as a charge-coupled device (CCD) sensor, active pixel sensor (APS), complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS) sensor, and/or any other image sensor or combination of image sensors. Image signals from the image sensor(s)212 may be passed to other electronic components of theimage capture device200 via abus280, such as to theprocessing apparatus220. In some implementations, the image sensor(s)212 includes a digital-to-analog converter. A multi-lens variation of theimage capture device200 can includemultiple image sensors212.

The microphone(s)214 is configured to detect sound, which may be recorded in conjunction with capturing images to form a video. The microphone(s)214 may also detect sound in order to receive audible commands to control theimage capture device200.

Theprocessing apparatus220 may be configured to perform image signal processing (e.g., filtering, tone mapping, stitching, and/or encoding) to generate output images based on image data from the image sensor(s)212. Theprocessing apparatus220 may include one or more processors having single or multiple processing cores. In some implementations, theprocessing apparatus220 may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). For example, theprocessing apparatus220 may include a custom image signal processor. Theprocessing apparatus220 may exchange data (e.g., image data) with other components of theimage capture device200, such as the image sensor(s)212, via thebus280.

Theprocessing apparatus220 may include memory, such as a random-access memory (RAM) device, flash memory, or another suitable type of storage device, such as a non-transitory computer-readable memory. The memory of theprocessing apparatus220 may include executable instructions and data that can be accessed by one or more processors of theprocessing apparatus220. For example, theprocessing apparatus220 may include one or more dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) modules, such as double data rate synchronous dynamic random-access memory (DDR SDRAM). In some implementations, theprocessing apparatus220 may include a digital signal processor (DSP). More than one processing apparatus may also be present or associated with theimage capture device200.

The data interfacecomponents230 enable communication between theimage capture device200 and other electronic devices, such as a remote control, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or a storage device. For example, thedata interface components230 may be used to receive commands to operate theimage capture device200, transfer image data to other electronic devices, and/or transfer other signals or information to and from theimage capture device200. The data interfacecomponents230 may be configured for wired and/or wireless communication. For example, thedata interface components230 may include an I/O interface232 that provides wired communication for the image capture device, which may be a USB interface (e.g., USB type-C), a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI), or a FireWire interface. The data interfacecomponents230 may include awireless data interface234 that provides wireless communication for theimage capture device200, such as a Bluetooth interface, a ZigBee interface, and/or a Wi-Fi interface. The data interfacecomponents230 may include astorage interface236, such as a memory card slot configured to receive and operatively couple to a storage device (e.g., a memory card) for data transfer with the image capture device200 (e.g., for storing captured images and/or recorded audio and video).

Themovement sensors240 may detect the position and movement of theimage capture device200. Themovement sensors240 may include aposition sensor242, anaccelerometer244, or agyroscope246. Theposition sensor242, such as a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, is used to determine a position of theimage capture device200. Theaccelerometer244, such as a three-axis accelerometer, measures linear motion (e.g., linear acceleration) of theimage capture device200. Thegyroscope246, such as a three-axis gyroscope, measures rotational motion (e.g., rate of rotation) of theimage capture device200. Other types ofmovement sensors240 may also be present or associated with theimage capture device200.

Thepower components250 may receive, store, and/or provide power for operating theimage capture device200. Thepower components250 may include abattery interface252 and abattery254. Thebattery interface252 operatively couples to thebattery254, for example, with conductive contacts to transfer power from thebattery254 to the other electronic components of theimage capture device200. Thepower components250 may also include anexternal interface256, and thepower components250 may, via theexternal interface256, receive power from an external source, such as a wall plug or external battery, for operating theimage capture device200 and/or charging thebattery254 of theimage capture device200. In some implementations, theexternal interface256 may be the I/O interface232. In such an implementation, the I/O interface232 may enable thepower components250 to receive power from an external source over a wired data interface component (e.g., a USB type-C cable).

Theuser interface components260 may allow the user to interact with theimage capture device200, for example, providing outputs to the user and receiving inputs from the user. Theuser interface components260 may includevisual output components262 to visually communicate information and/or present captured images to the user. Thevisual output components262 may include one ormore lights264 and/ormore displays266. The display(s)266 may be configured as a touch screen that receives inputs from the user. Theuser interface components260 may also include one ormore speakers268. The speaker(s)268 can function as an audio output component that audibly communicates information and/or presents recorded audio to the user. Theuser interface components260 may also include one or more physical input interfaces270 that are physically manipulated by the user to provide input to theimage capture device200. The physical input interfaces270 may, for example, be configured as buttons, toggles, or switches. Theuser interface components260 may also be considered to include the microphone(s)214, as indicated in dotted line, and the microphone(s)214 may function to receive audio inputs from the user, such as voice commands.

Theimage capture devices100,200 may be configured in the form of an image head and may connect with various form factor sub-system bases as described inFIGS.3A-6F.

FIG.3A is a front isometric view of animage capture device300. Theimage capture device300 includes a base302 which as shown has a phone-like form factor (i.e., a base, a sub-system base, or phone-like base) and animage head304. A lockingswitch cover306 includes a lockingswitch308 that removably connects theimage head304 within thebase302. For example, when a user desires to remove theimage head304 from thebase302, the user moves or otherwise engages the lockingswitch308 so that theimage head304 may be pulled out of thebase302.

Thebase302 includes ashutter button310 that upon actuation can activate theimage head304 so that theimage head304 detects, generates, and/or otherwise captures an image (not shown). The image may be previewed on afront screen312 before the image is saved or the image may be shown on thefront screen312 after theshutter button310 is actuated. Thefront screen312 may be used in a “selfie” mode or to show a user or subject of the image that the image has been or is being generated.

Thebase302 includes one ormore ports314. Theports314 may be connected to one or more internal components of thebase302, theimage head304, or both. Theports314 may be configured to support transfer of power, data, or both. Theports314 may support charging internal batteries (e.g., one or more or two or more batteries). Theports314 may provide access to data in the memory, receive data from the memory, or both. Theports314 may be a USB, micro-USB, USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, an XLR, RCA, AC/DC power converter, or a combination thereof. The base302 may have multipledifferent ports314 that each provide some different function or connect to a different part of theimage capture device300.

The base302 may include one ormore microphones316. Themicrophone316 on the front surface is located below theimage head304. Themicrophones316 assist collecting sounds and noises produced while in video mode. Themicrophones316 may include one or more, two or more, or three or more microphones. Themicrophones316 may be located on a top, bottom, front, left, right, back, or a combination of sides of theimage capture device300.

FIG.3B is a rear isometric view of theimage capture device300. The rear surface of thebase302 is shown with theimage head304 facing away from the viewer. A majority (e.g., 60 percent or more, 75 percent or more, 85 percent or more, or 90 percent or more by area) of the rear surface of thebase302 is covered by arear screen318. Therear screen318 may be used to preview images previously generated, preview images being generated, review memory settings, review system settings, review mode settings, or a combination thereof. Therear screen318 may show a user what is in the view of theimage head304. A user may actuate atoggle320 to control contents of therear screen318.

Thetoggle320 is a button that permits a user to select an item from a menu, a bar, a window, a tab, or a combination thereof. Thetoggle320 may move from bar to bar, window to window, tab to tab, option to option, or a combination thereof. Thetoggle320 may change from picture to picture. Thetoggle320 may allow the user to change modes, adjust settings, adjust volume, or a combination thereof. Thetoggle320 may control theimage capture device300. Thetoggle320 may be an arrow button, an enter button, a joystick, a capacitive sensor, or a combination thereof. Thetoggle320 as shown is located adjacent to aspeaker322.

One ormore speakers322 may produce sounds or replay recorded audio. Thespeakers322 may indicate that a recording is in progress, a recording is about to occur, or both. Thespeakers322 may replay audio captured during use of the image head304 (e.g., a video) or relay status information from theimage capture device300. Thespeakers322 may be located on any side of the base302 (e.g., front, back, top, bottom, left, right, or a combination thereof). The base302 may include one or more speakers, two or more speakers, or even three or more speakers. Thespeakers322 may only be located on the rear surface.

The base302 may include batteries (not shown). The batteries may include one or more batteries or two or more batteries. The batteries may provide sufficient power such that theimage capture device300 may operate for about 100 minutes or more, 200 minutes or more, 300 minutes or more, 350 minutes or more, 500 minutes or more, or 1000 minutes or more. The batteries may be lithium-ion rechargeable batteries.

FIG.3C is a partially exploded view of theimage capture device300 with theimage head304 removed from thebase302. Theimage head304 is shown extending out of acavity324 in thebase302. Thecavity324 is sized and shaped to fit substantially all of theimage head304. Thecavity324 may form an interference fit with theimage head304 so that a watertight connection is formed. Thecavity324 and theimage head304 are complementary in shape. Thecavity324 andimage head304 may be any shape (e.g., square, rectangular, hexagonal, triangular, oval, round, pentagonal, octagonal, or a combination thereof) such that thecavity324 andimage head304 are connectable together. Thecavity324 may axially receive theimage head304 and guide theimage head304 into thecavity324. Thecavity324 includes tracks326 (lower portions of which are shown) that fit within rails328 (upper portions of which are shown) on theimage head304.

Thetracks326 and therails328 work in conjunction to seat theimage head304 within thecavity324. Thetracks326 and therails328 provide sliding directional control to seat theimage head304 within thecavity324. The sliding directional control between thetracks326 and therails328 may provide directional support so that a user is not required to provide guidance during movement of theimage head304 into thecavity324. Thetracks326 and therails328 may extend parallel to one another as shown, parallel to an axis of movement of theimage head304, or both. Thetracks326 may include a raised surface that fits within voids, slots, or detents of therails328, or vice versa. There may be an equal number of thetracks326 and therails328. One side of theimage head304 may include tworails328 and the corresponding side of thecavity324 may also include twotracks326. Theimage head304 and thecavity324 may have asingle track326 and asingle rail328 that guide theimage head304 into thecavity324. Therails328 and thetracks326 may have flat walls. Therails328 and thetracks326 may be “T” shaped so that theimage head304 can only be installed in a certain configuration.

Therails328 may have a larger opening (e.g., a flare as shown inFIGS.6A-6B) and taper or narrow as therails328 extend from a rear end towards a forward end of theimage head304. Therails328 may include such a flared entrance or opening to assist in blindly inserting theimage head304 into thecavity324. For example, as theimage head304 is being inserted into the cavity324 a user's vision may be restricted such that the user cannot see therails328 or thetracks326 to move theimage head304 accordingly. Therails328 may include a recess that thetracks326 fit within. Thetracks326 and therails328 guide theimage head304 axially into thecavity324 within thebase302. Therails328 may be located on one side. two sides, or more sides of theimage head304. Therails328 may be located on opposing sides or adjacent sides of theimage head304. Therails328 may guide theimage head304 into thecavity324 so that theimage head304 connects to an internal port330 of thebase302, aninternal heat sink332 of thebase302, or both.

The internal port330 functions to electrically connect thebase302 and theimage head304. The internal port330 may provide power to theimage head304. The internal port330 may provide signals to thefront screen312, therear screen318, or both. The internal port330 and theports314 may include a same type of connector and the teachings of theports314 are incorporated herein as to the internal port330. The internal port330 may have some axial compliance so that theimage head304 may be locked in place by the lockingswitch308, be in communication with theheat sink332, or both. The internal port330 may be a male connector or a female connector. The internal port330 may be a USB connector. The internal port330 may be an opposite connector as a connector (e.g., seeUSB connector612 inFIG.6C) in theimage head304.

Theheat sink332 functions to transfer heat between the base302 and theimage head304. Theheat sink332 may assist in cooling internal componentry within the image head304 (seeFIGS.6E-6F). Theheat sink332 is located in thecavity324 and contacts another heat sink on the image head304 (e.g., seeheat sink623 inFIG.6C) to transfer heat between the base302 and theimage head304. Theheat sink332 distributes heat within thebase302, theimage head304, or both. Theheat sink332 may remove heat from thebase302 and may assist in releasing the heat into an atmosphere around theimage capture device300. A seal on the image head304 (e.g., seeseal614 inFIG.6C) may assist in forming a connection between theheat sink332 and theimage head304.

As theimage head304 extends into thebase302, aseal334 within thecavity324 of thebase302 is compressed so that a connection is formed between the internal port330 and theimage head304 and theseal334 is compressed until theimage head304 contacts theinternal heat sink332. Theseal334 is a compliant material that may be compressed. Theseal334 may be compliant in one direction (e.g., axially) and rigid in a different direction (e.g., laterally). Theseal334 assists in supporting the internal port330 so that the internal port330 electrically connects to theimage head304. Theseal334 may protect the internal port330 or a region around the internal port330 so that fluid, debris, or both are prevented from entering thebase302 via the internal port330. All or a portion of theseal334 may extend into theimage head304. Theseal334 may be compressed between the image head3304 and a wall of the base302 so that a watertight seal is formed. Theseal334 may have some rigidity. Theseal334 may assist in supporting the internal port330 so that the internal port330 connects to theimage head304. Theseal334 may be made of virtually any material that is hydrophobic and compliant. Theseal334 may be made of or include silicone, rubber, plastic, a polymer, an elastomer, a closed cell foam, or a combination thereof. Theseal334 may extend through the wall of the base302 to form a water barrier within thecavity324. Theseal334 may include a gasket336.

The gasket336 functions to form a seal between the internal port330 and theimage head304. The gasket336 may extend into a port within the image head304 (e.g., seeport610 shown inFIG.6C) and seal the port. The gasket336 may extend into the port within theimage head304 to prevent fluid from entering into theimage head304. The gasket336 may extend around all or a portion of theseal334. The gasket336 may assist theseal334 in preventing water ingress into thebase302, theimage head304, or both. The gasket336 may be made of or include silicone, rubber, plastic, a polymer, an elastomer, a closed cell foam, or a combination thereof. The gasket336 may be made of a compliant material. The gasket336 may be made of a material that is softer than the material of theseal334. The gasket336 may fit entirely within the port of theimage head304 to prevent fluids from extending into theimage head304.

FIG.4A is an isometric view of animage capture device400 shown as a rectangular form factor base402 (e.g., a base, rectangular base, or a sub-system base) and animage head404. Therectangular base402 includes less functionality than the phone-like base302. Therectangular base402 may be anintermediate base402 between the phone-like form factor302 ofFIGS.3A-3C and a tetheredcable form factor502 ofFIGS.5A-5B. Therectangular base402 includes a locking switch cover406 with a lockingswitch408 to lock theimage head404 within therectangular base402.

The locking switch cover406 physically connects theimage head404 within thebase402 so that theimage head404 is stowed and locked therein. The locking switch cover406 further assists in maintaining a sealed connection between theimage head404 and the base402 so that fluid is prevented from entering thebase402, theimage head404, or both. The locking switch cover406 may ensure that theimage head404 is installed properly and is maintained in a seated position once located within thebase402. The locking switch cover406 may include a lockingswitch408.

The lockingswitch408 may release theimage head404 so that theimage head404 may be removed from thebase402. The lockingswitch408 when actuated may release theimage head404. When the lockingswitch408 is actuated, a seal410 (ofFIG.4C) may be free to decompress and axially move theimage head404 at least partially out of thebase402. The lockingswitch408 may be laterally movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The lockingswitch408 may slide within a track. During operation, the lockingswitch408 is in a locked position so thatimage head404 is retained in thebase402. When theimage head404 is locked in thebase402, ashutter button412 may be depressed to detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture images (not shown).

Theshutter button412 activates theimage head404 so that theimage head404 generates, detects, and/or otherwise captures images. Theshutter button412 may activate theimage head404 so that images or videos are stored on a memory of theimage capture device400. Theshutter button412 may initiate a recording, initiate a display such asdisplay418 to display a scene of interest from theimage head404, or both. Theshutter button412 may initiate image detection, generation, and/or capturing, and atoggle414 may control a type of image generated, a mode of generation and/or detection, theimage capture device400, or a combination thereof.

Thetoggle414 may control theimage capture device400. Thetoggle414 and thetoggle320 ofFIGS.3A to3C may have similar features and perform the same functions. Thetoggle414 may allow a user to review images, change modes, set a timer, delete images, turn power on, turn power off, or a combination thereof. Thetoggle414 may change what is displayed to a user, how theimage capture device400 operates, or both. Thetoggle414 may switch image modes between a motion mode where the image capture device is moving and a static mode where the image capture device is connected via aninterconnect mechanism416.

Theinterconnect mechanism416 may connect theimage capture device400 to a static object, a helmet, a vehicle, a selfie-stick, a tripod, a gimble, any other support device, or a combination thereof. Theinterconnect mechanism416 may be a mount. Theinterconnect mechanism416 may be movable, static, rotatable, stowable, foldable, or a combination thereof.

FIG.4B is a rear isometric view of theimage capture device400 ofFIG.4A. Theimage capture device400 includes theimage head404 within the base402 with adisplay418 of the base402 being visible. Thedisplay418 may concurrently show objects in front of theimage head404, modes of operation, saved images, saved videos, a preview of an image, day, time, date, or a combination thereof. Thedisplay418 may be the only display in therectangular base402. Thedisplay418 may be an LCD screen. Thedisplay418 may be substantially a same size as a rear wall of theimage capture device400. Thedisplay418 may be changed by pressing thetoggle414. Thetoggle414 may control what is shown on thedisplay418, how theimage capture device400 functions, or both.

FIG.4C is a partially exploded view of theimage capture device400 ofFIG.4A with theimage head404 removed from thebase402. As shown, theimage head404 is removed from acavity420 so that aninternal port422, theseal410, and agasket424 are exposed. Thecavity420 of theimage capture device400 includes similar components as the cavity342 ofFIG.3C. and the teachings of the elements within the cavity342 are incorporated herein for thecavity420 ofFIG.4C.

FIG.5A is an isometric view of animage capture device500. Theimage capture device500 includes a tethered cable form factor sub-system base502 (i.e., tethered base or base) and animage head504. Thebase502 includes a cavity (not shown) that receives thatimage head504. Theimage head504 may be similar to or the same as the image heads304,404 shown inFIGS.3A-4C, the teachings of which are incorporated herein. Theimage head504 is insertable into and removable from thebase502. Theimage head504 is locked within thebase502 by a lockingswitch cover506. The lockingswitch cover506 includes a lockingswitch508 that is movable to release theimage head504 so that theimage head504 is removable and may be used in anotherbase302,402 taught herein. The lockingswitch508 as shown slides from one side to another side to release theimage head504 as was discussed herein with regards to the locking switches308 and408.

Theimage capture device500 includes aninterconnect mechanism510. Theinterconnect mechanism510 assists theimage capture device500 in being mounted. Theinterconnect mechanism510 may connect to a helmet, gimble, tripod, camera stand, or any other device used to support animage capture device500. Theinterconnect mechanism510 may be similar to or the same as theinterconnect mechanism416 as taught inFIGS.4A-4C.

Thetethered base502 includes the least functionality of all of thebases302,402, or502 described herein. Thetethered base502 is free of batteries or other internal power sources and receives power via acord512. Thecord512 connects theimage capture device500 to a remote power source. Thecord512 may also connect theimage capture device500 for information transfer to other devices that include memory, power, a screen, a processor, a controller, or a combination thereof. For example, thecord512 may plug into a phone, tablet, computer, exterior controller, or a combination thereof. Thetethered base502, theimage head504, or both may include some memory, some power source, or both so that theimage capture device500 may be temporarily used when thecord512 is unplugged. Thecord512 may then be used to recharge the power source of theimage capture device500 when plugged back in.

FIG.5B is a rear isometric view of theimage capture device500 ofFIG.5A. The rear view shows thecord512 extending into the tetheredbase502 and ashutter button514 that activates theimage capture device500. Upon pressing theshutter button514, a video or image generation is triggered by theimage capture device500. Theshutter button514 may only activate theimage capture device500 while being depressed. Theshutter button514 may initiate detection and/or generation of a video or images for an entire duration that theshutter button514 is depressed, and upon being released, image or video generation may cease. Theshutter button514 may initiate detection and/or generation of a video or images upon a first depression and may cease detection of video or images upon a second depression. Other depression sequences are also possible.

FIG.6A is a front isometric view of animage head600 andFIG.6B is a rear isometric view of theimage head600. Theimage head600 may be used with any of thebases302,402, or502 taught herein and is interchangeable with any of thebases302,402, or502. Theimage head600 may be similar to or the same as any of the image heads304,404, or504. Thus, asingle image head600 may be purchased that includes all of the componentry to detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture images and videos (not shown) and theimage head600 may be placed indifferent bases302,402, or502 depending on a desire or need of a user. Theimage head600 includes ahousing602.

Thehousing602 includes four sides that include afirst side602A, asecond side602B, athird side602C, and afourth side602D. Thehousing602 as shown is square in shape; however, thehousing602 may have other shapes. Thehousing602 may be round, oval, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, a geometric shape, a non-geometric shape, symmetrical, asymmetrical, or a combination thereof. Thehousing602 may have a complementary shape to a shape of thecavities324,420 of thebases302,402, or502 so that theimage head600 may be interchangeably moved between thebases302,402, or502. Thehousing602 includes rail alignment features604 to assist in installing and removing theimage head600 from thebases302,402, and502.

The rail alignment features604 may include any feature that assists a user in properly installing theimage head600 within a base such as thebases302,402, or502. The rail alignment features604 may be a male feature, a female feature, or a combination of both. The rail alignment features604 may be located on one or more sides, three or more sides, or four or more sides. Each side may include one or more rail alignment features604 or two or more rail alignment features604. The rail alignment features604 may be located on opposing sides or adjacent sides. For example, the rail alignment features may be located on afirst side602A and asecond side602B (e.g., opposite) or afirst side602A and athird side602C (e.g., adjacent). The rail alignment features604 may extend substantially an axial length of theimage head600. The rail alignment features604 may extend about 50 percent or more, 60 percent or more, or about 75 percent or more of an axial length of theimage head600. The rail alignment features604 may be sufficiently long so that when installed theimage head600 is properly seated (e.g., connected) within thebases302,402, and502. The rail alignment features604 may act as a stop when thenimage head600 is fully seated. For example, the rail alignment features may only permit theimage head600 to be inserted a predetermined distance to ensure proper seating, to protect elements of theimage head600, or both. The rail alignment features604 as shown includefirst side rails606A and second side rails606B.

The first side rails606A are located on thefirst side602A (FIG.6A) and the second side rails606B are located on thesecond side602B of the housing602 (FIG.6B). Thefirst side rails606A and the second side rails606B extend in a parallel manner to one another. Thefirst side rails606A and the second side rails606B may have a continuous width along a length. Thefirst side rails606A and the second side rails606B may have aflare608 to help receive a track or guide rail such as thetrack326 shown inFIG.3C. Theflares608 may assist in forming a blind connection (e.g., a connection where the user cannot see where the connection is occurring). Theflares608 may guide the track or tracks into the first side rails606A or the second side rails606B respectively. Theflares608 may be a first component that the tracks contact so that the tracks are guided into the first side rails606A or the second side rails606B respectively.

FIG.6B illustrates thesecond side602B of theimage head600 ofFIG.6A. As shown, thesecond side602B includes the second side rails606B, and thethird side602C and thefourth side602D are free of side rails.

FIG.6C is a bottom isometric view of theimage head600 ofFIGS.6A and6B. The bottom surface of theimage head600 includes aport610. Theport610 is a connection point where theimage head600 connects to any base such asbases302,402, and502 taught herein. Theport610 may be a recess that receives a portion of thebases302,402, or502. Theport610 may have a portion that extends into thebases302,402, or502. Theport610 may assist in forming an electrical connection, a connection where signals may pass to control the image head, or both. Theport610 may include any connection device to connect with theimage head600 so that theimage head600 may be used to detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture images (not shown). Theport610 may include a connection device such as aUSB connector612, however, other connection devices may be used such as the connection devices discussed herein with regard to theports314 or internal port330.

TheUSB connector612 functions to permit control of theimage head600 by any of thebases302,402, and502 taught herein. TheUSB connector612 may provide power, control, or both between thebases302,402, and502 and theimage head600. TheUSB connector612 may be any connection device taught herein. TheUSB connector612 may extend as a cantilever into theport610. TheUSB connector612 may be supported by aseal614.

Theseal614 may extend around all or a portion of theUSB connector612. Theseal614 may support theUSB connector612 so that when theimage head600 is forming a connection, theUSB connector612 is not bent or damaged. Theseal614 may be compliant so that as theimage head600 is being installed, theseal614 may deform. Theseal614 may contact another seal (e.g., theseal334 ofFIG.3C) in thebase302,402, and502. Theseal614 may extend from an interior location of theimage head600 to an exterior location of theimage head600 so that fluid is prevented from entering theimage head600. Theseal614 may surround a circumference of theUSB connector612 so that fluids are prevented from entering theimage head600 through a region around theUSB connector612. Theseal614 may be made of or include rubber, elastomer, plastic, polymer, silicone, or a combination thereof. Alatch616 may be located on a side of theimage head600 opposite theport610.

Thelatch616 functions to connect theimage head600 to thebases302,402, or502 and prevents theimage head600 from being removed. Thelatch616 removably forms a connection. Thelatch616 may be a one-way latch that moves to form a connection when theimage head600 moves in a first direction and prevents removal when theimage head600 moves in second direction. Thelatch616 may be any type of latch that forms a fixed connection. Thelatch616 may move so as to rotate, fold, bend, be pressed in, or a combination thereof. Thelatch616 may be rigid, spring, move, flex, or a combination thereof. Thelatch616 may have alatch hook618 that catches a portion (e.g., the locking switch covers306,406, or506) of thebases302,402, or502 to form a connection.

Thelatch hook618 may move inward (e.g., into an extended position) as theimage head600 is inserted into one of thebases302,402, or502. Thelatch hook618 may prevent theimage head600 from being removed when thelatch hook618 is in a resting position where the locking switch covers (e.g.,306,406,506) and thelatch hook618 are in communication. Thelatch hook618 may be static. Thelatch hook618 may be movable between the resting position and the extended position. Thelatch hook618 may be mono-stable and may always return to the resting position when no force is acting on thelatch hook618. Thelatch hook618 may only move when a force is applied to thelatch hook618. Thelatch hook618 may be released by one of the locking switch covers306,406, or506 when one of the locking switches308,408, or508 is actuated. Thelatch hook618 may extend upward (e.g., from a bottom of theimage head600 towards a top of the image head600). Thelatch hook618 may be made of or include metal, plastic, polymer, rigid material, flexible material, stainless steel, spring steel, or a combination thereof. Thelatch hook618 can be sufficiently flexible such that thelatch hook618 is movable to form a connection and then movable into an unbiased state when forces are removed by theimage head600 being in an installed position. Thelatch hook618 may be connected to theimage head600 via afastener620 as shown or may be integral with the housing602 (not shown).

Thefastener620 may fixedly connect thelatch hook618 to theimage head600. Thefastener620 may removably connect thelatch hook618 to theimage head600. Thefastener620 may extend into theimage head600. Thefastener620 may be any type of fastener that connects two parts together. Thefastener620 may be a/an screw, rivet, push pin, adhesive, weld, friction weld, over mold, or a combination thereof. Thefastener620 may be located proximate to alatching recess622 and thelatch hook618 may extend into the latchingrecess622.

The latchingrecess622 functions to receive a portion of thebases302,402, or502 so that a connection is formed with thelatch hook618. The locking switch covers306,406, or506 may extend into the latchingrecess622 and connect to thelatch hook618. The latchingrecess622 permits movement of thelatch hook618, the locking switches308,408,508, or both. The latchingrecess622 is complementary in shape to a portion of thebases302,402, or502 so that a connection may be formed.

Aheat sink623 is located on a bottom of theimage head600 to assist in removing heat from theimage head600 during operation. Theheat sink623 will contact a heat sink (such as theheat sink332 ofFIG.3C) in one of thebases302,402, or502 when theimage head600 is seated in one of thebases302,402, or502.

FIG.6D is an isometric partial view of a top of theimage head600 ofFIG.6A. Theimage head600 includes aninterference member624. Theinterference member624 creates an interference fit with any of thebases302,402, or502 when theimage head600 extends into thecavity324 or420 to prevent fluid from entering into thecavity324 or420. Theinterference member624 contacts a wall of thebases302,402, or502. Theinterference member624 may be compressible. Theinterference member624 may have a size that is larger than a size of thecavities324 or420 such that theinterference member624 compresses to fit within thecavities324 or420. Theinterference member624 may restrict theimage head600 from being removed. Theinterference member624 may be made of or include a/an elastomer, rubber, polymer, silicone, or a combination thereof. Theinterference member624 may includeouter seals626.

Theouter seals626 may be compressed to form the interference fit. Theouter seals626 may be a series of concentric rings that extend outward from a body of theinterference member624. Theouter seals626 may prevent water or other fluids from entering theimage head600 by creating a barrier. Theouter seals626 may project outward and then be compressed in the installed position. Theouter seals626 may be compressible, flexible, or both. Theouter seals626 may be a monolithic part of theinterference member624. Theouter seals626 may be located axially inward from a plurality ofgrooves628.

Thegrooves628 function to assist a user in removing theimage head600 from one of thebases302,402, or502. Thegrooves628 may extend around a circumference of a top of theimage head600. Thegrooves628 may be a grip. Thegrooves628 may extend horizontally or circumferentially. Thegrooves628 may be one, two, three, or even four parallel grooves. Thegrooves628 may be positioned outside of thebases302,402, or502 when theimage head600 is fully installed. Thegrooves628 may be located proximate to or be part of anexternal heat sink630.

Theexternal heat sink630 functions to remove heat from theimage head600. Theexternal heat sink630 may be exposed to ambient air (or liquid) so that the ambient air removes heat or heat is transferred to the ambient air. Theexternal heat sink630 may be made of any material that transfers heat from theimage head600 to ambient air (or liquid). Theexternal heat sink630 may assist in balancing heat within theimage head600.

FIG.6E is an isometric view of theimage head600 ofFIG.6A with the housing removed so thatinternal componentry632 is exposed. Theinternal componentry632 can run theimage head600 without any additional components. Theinternal componentry632 may include all functionality needed to detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture images or videos. Theinternal componentry632 may only operate for a short period of time (e.g., 20 minutes or less, 10 minutes or less, or 5 minutes or less) without an additional power source. Theinternal componentry632 may be free of a power source. Theinternal componentry632 may include a printedcircuit board634.

The printed circuit board (PCB)634 operates to support and connect theinternal componentry632. ThePCB634 may be rigid. ThePCB634 may be flexible. ThePCB634 may be one or more parts. ThePCB634 may include or be connected to a system on chip (SOS), an embedded multimedia card (eMMC), or both. ThePCB634 may support, have a cable connection that extends to, or include aUSB connector636.

TheUSB connector636 may supply power to thePCB634, support communication to/from theinternal componentry632, or both. TheUSB connector636 may carry information that actuates or permits theinternal componentry632 to detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture images and/or videos. TheUSB connector636 may connect theimage head600 to one of thebases302,402, or502. TheUSB connector636 may be any connection device taught herein.

Theinternal componentry632 may include a wireless antenna contact638 (e.g., a WIFI antenna contact). Thewireless antenna contact638 functions to permit wireless communication between theimage head600 and other wireless-enabled devices such as a WIFI-enabled device (e.g., a phone, computer, tablet, kiosk). Thewireless antenna contact638 may contact a wall of the housing602 (seeFIGS.6A to6B) to support emission of wireless communications.

An end of thePCB634 includes aPCB connector640 that connect two or three adjacent panels of thePCB634 together. ThePCB connector640 may allow thePCB634 to move and flex while maintaining functionality of thePCB634. ThePCB connector640 may be a flexible joint. ThePCB connector640 may allow signals, power, or both to move between panels of thePCB634. One panel of thePCB634 includes a wireless-enableddevice642.

The printed circuit board (PCB)634 may be connected to or include one or more power management integrated circuits (PMIC) (not shown). The PMIC may regulate power within theimage head600. The PMIC may include a battery (not shown). The PMIC may power theimage head600 when the image head is removed from theimage capture device300,400, or500.

The wireless-enableddevice642 may be a card, a component on thePCB634, or a component that is electrically connected to thePCB634. The wireless-enableddevice642 may work with thewireless antenna contact638 to create wireless communication. The wireless-enableddevice642 may wirelessly communicate with another WIFI-enabled device (not shown). The wireless-enableddevice642 may pass information from amemory644 to another device.

Thememory644 may be any memory that is capable of storing images, videos, audio, or a combination thereof. Thememory644 may be RAM, ROM, or flash memory. Thememory644 may be removable. Thememory644 may be both a fixed memory and a removable memory. Thememory644 may include areceptacle646 that receives a card648 (e.g., an SD card).

Thereceptacle646 may permit for thecard648 to be optionally installed, for example, to expand or upgrade thememory644. For example, thecard648 can be removed and used with a different device (not shown). Thereceptacle646 and thecard648 may be sealed within theimage head600 such that an only time thecard648 may be integrated or changed is during installation. Thecard648 may make eachimage head600 adaptable to support different sizes and shapes. Thereceptacle646 and thecard648 are in communication with theoptical system650.

Theoptical system650 is any optical system that can detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture images, videos, or both. Theoptical system650 includes every component needed to detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture images, videos, or both. Theoptical system650 is entirely contained within theimage head600. Theoptical system650 is shown in more detail in the cross-sectional view ofFIG.6F.

FIG.6F is a cross-sectional view ofFIG.6A along lines VIF-VIF. Theoptical system650 is an integrated sensor and lens assembly (ISLA)652. TheISLA652 has a length as shown. TheISLA652 includes asensor654.

Thesensor654 can detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture the images or videos. Thesensor654 may be any sensor that is used in a camera to detect, generate, and/or otherwise capture images or videos. Thesensor654 may be aligned with one ormore lenses656.

Thelenses656 may be any lens that functions to focus light reflected from an item of interest so that the item of interest may be detected, captured, or recorded. Thelenses656 may include features such as magnification (e.g., zoom), wide angle, color, filtering, or a combination thereof. There may be one or more, two or more, three or more, or even four ormore lenses656. Thelenses656 may be fixed lenses. Thelenses656 may all extend along anoptical axis658. Theoptical axis658 may extend through thesensor654 and thelenses656. Theoptical axis658 may extend through theISLA652 and alens660.

Thelens660 may be an outermost lens. Thelens660 may create a seal. Thelens660 may protect thelenses656 and theinternal componentry632 within theimage head600. Thelens660 may provide a waterproof seal.

FIG.7A is a front perspective view of aconnector cover700. Theconnector cover700 functions to assist in providing waterproofing to the image heads304,404,504, or600; thebases302,402, or502; or both. Theconnector cover700 may providing such waterproofing to the image heads304,404,504, or600; thebases302,402, or502; or both when the image heads304,404,504, or600; thebases302,402, or502; or both are connected together.

Theconnector cover700 includes alip702 that that abuts or sits on an inside of any of the image heads304,404,504, or600; thebases302,402, or502; or both. Thelip702 prevents theconnector cover700 from being removed. Thelip702 may provide waterproofing to any of thecavities324 or420 of thebases302,402, or502. Thelip702 may extend radially outward. Thelip702 may form a rear wall of theconnector cover700. Aprojection704 extends outward from thelip702.

Theprojection704 extends into any of thecavities324 or420, around an internal port (e.g., such as theinternal ports330 or422 that include a USB connector), or both. Theprojection704 extends through a wall of any of thecavities324 or420 to prevent fluid from entering through the wall. Theprojection704 may be substantially rigid and free of any compressibility. Theprojection704 may prevent theUSB connector612 from bending or flexing. Theprojection704 may support theUSB connector612 while a connecting is being created. Theprojection704 may be compressible or have some compressibility so that a connector, such as theUSB connector612, may form a connection with theinternal ports330 or422. Theprojection704 may surround all or a portion of theUSB connector612, theinternal ports330 or422, or both. Theprojection704 may form a supportive sleeve around theUSB connector612, theinternal ports330 or422, or both. Theprojection704 may support aseal706.

Theseal706 may extend around theprojection704 and be located behind thelip702. Thelip702 may retain theseal706 on theconnector cover700. Theseal706 may be malleable. Theseal706 may compress and deform so that a seal is formed between theconnector cover700 and adjacentinternal ports330 or422. Theseal706 may be made of or include rubber, an elastomer, silicone, or a combination thereof. Theseal706 may be an O-ring.

FIG.7B is a rear perspective view of theconnector cover700 ofFIG.7A. Theconnector cover700 includesribs708. Theribs708 may form a fit with theUSB connector612, theinternal ports330 or422, or both. Theribs708 may provide rigidness to theconnector cover700. Theribs708 may create radial stiffness, longitudinal stiffness, axial stiffness, or a combination thereof. Theribs708 may prevent theUSB connector612, theinternal ports330 or422, theconnector cover700, or a combination thereof from bending.

While the disclosure has been described in connection with certain embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as is permitted under the law.

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:

1. An image head comprising:

a housing comprising:

a first side;

a second side located opposite the second side;

side rails located on or within the first side, the second side, or both, wherein the side rails are configured to provide sliding directional control of the image head when connecting to a base;

a port forming a recess in the housing that is configured to receive a portion of the base so that the image head is connectable to the base;

a USB connector located within the port and surrounded by the port,

wherein the USB connector is configured to electrically connect the image head to the base,

wherein the port is configured to receive a seal of the base so that the seal is compressible within the port and the seal surrounds all or a portion of the USB connector to provide support to the USB connector, and

wherein the seal is configured to prevent fluids from entering the image head; and

internal componentry comprising:

a printed circuit board;

an integrated lens and sensor assembly (ISLA) configured to detect an image; and

memory located on the printed circuit board configured to store the image.

2. The image head ofclaim 1, wherein the side rails include a flare so that the image head can be blindly installed within the base.

3. The image head ofclaim 1, further comprising a latch hook configured to connect the image head to the base when the image head is in communication with the base.

4. The image head ofclaim 3, wherein the latch hook is movable so that during installation the latch hook moves from a resting position, to an extended position while the image head is being installed, and then moves back to the resting position to lock the image head within the base.

5. The image head ofclaim 1, further comprising grooves extending around a forward end of the image head, wherein the grooves assist a user in gripping the image head during installation or removal of the image head from the base.

6. The image head ofclaim 1, wherein a portion of the seal is located inside of the image head and a portion of the seal is located outside of the image head.

7. The image head ofclaim 1, wherein the internal componentry further comprises a wireless-enabled device, a receptacle, and a card that removably extends into the receptacle to provide programming, memory, or both.

8. The image head ofclaim 1, further comprising:

a heat sink located on a bottom of the image head.

9. The image head ofclaim 1, further comprising:

an interference member that extends around an outer surface of the image head.

10. An image capture device comprising:

a base comprising:

a cavity; and

an image head comprising:

a housing comprising:

a first side;

a second side located opposite the second side;

side rails located on or within the first side, the second side, or both, the side rails configured to slidingly connect the image head within the cavity of the base;

a port configured to electrically connect the image head to the base;

internal componentry comprising:

a printed circuit board; and

an integrated lens and sensor assembly (ISLA) configured to detect an image,

wherein the base is free of any circuitry that generates or stores an image, and

wherein the image head includes a latch that connects with a locking switch cover in the base to removably secure the image head within the base.

11. The image capture device ofclaim 10, wherein the base comprises a front screen, a rear screen, a speaker, a microphone, ports, a shutter button, and a battery.

12. The image capture device ofclaim 11, wherein the internal componentry within the image head controls image generation, and wherein the base provides a support for the image head during the image generation.

13. The image capture device ofclaim 10, wherein the base has a rectangular form factor, the base comprising: a single display, a toggle, a shutter button, and a locking switch cover to secure the image head within the base.

14. The image capture device ofclaim 10, further comprising:

an interference member that extends around an outer surface of the image head so that when the image head is inserted into the base, an interference fit is formed.

15. An image capture device comprising:

a base comprising:

a power source;

an image generation button;

a cavity;

a heatsink disposed in the cavity; and

a seal;

an image head comprising:

a housing comprising:

a first side; and

a second side located opposite the second side;

side rails located on or within the first side and the second side, the side rails configured to assist the image head into a mating connection as the image head extends into the cavity in the base;

a port configured to electrically connect the image head to the base as the image head extends into the cavity of the base;

a heat sink; and

internal componentry comprising:

a printed circuit board; and

an integrated lens and sensor assembly (ISLA) configured to detect an image;

wherein when the image head is installed in the cavity of the base, the heat sink of the base and the heat sink of the image head are in thermal communication; and

wherein the seal is compressible so that the heat sink of the image head and the heat sink of the base are movable into direct contact upon installation of the image head to the base so that heat transfers between the image head and the base.

16. The image capture device ofclaim 15, further comprising a USB connector within the cavity, and wherein the seal extends around the USB connector and supports the USB connector during installation of the image head to the base so that the USB connector within the cavity connects with a USB connector in the image head.

17. The image capture device ofclaim 15, wherein the cavity of the base comprises tracks, and wherein the image head comprises rails that matingly engage the tracks to facilitate installation of the image head into the cavity of the base.

18. The image capture device ofclaim 15, further comprising an outer seal that extends around a periphery of the image head, wherein the outer seal is compressible by the cavity to prevent fluid from entering the cavity when the image head is installed.

19. The image capture device ofclaim 15, further comprising:

an interference member that extends around an outer surface of the image head so that when the image head is inserted into the base, an interference fit is formed.

20. The image capture device ofclaim 15, wherein the seal includes ribs that provide stiffness to the seal and assist the seal in prohibiting the USB connector from bending.

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